BHARATIYA NYAYA SANHITA, BHARATIYA NAGARIK SURAKSHA SANHITA, AND BHARATIYA SAKSHYA ADHINIYAM, SSP KANWARDEEP KAUR HIGHLIGHTS REVOLUTIONARY LEGAL REFORMS AT PIB MEDIA WORKSHOP IN CHANDIGARH
Face2News/Chandigarh
The Press Information Bureau (PIB) Chandigarh, organized a media workshop today at the UT State Guesthouse, Chandigarh. The event was aimed to familiarize journalists from Chandigarh and nearby areas with three new legislations: Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), which are set to come into force from July 1, 2024.
Mrs. Kanwardeep Kaur, IPS, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Chandigarh, served as the chief guest and special speaker at the gathering. She emphasized the importance of these new laws, “With these new laws, the system can now move more efficiently towards ensuring justice.” SSP Kanwardeep Kaur elaborated on the innovative aspects of the new legal framework, particularly the use of digital technology to enhance the justice delivery system. “Under the new laws, timestamped evidence will be stored and made available to courts in a timely manner. This will significantly improve conviction rates across the country,” she stated.
SSP Kanwardeep Kaur also informed that all Investigating Officers in Chandigarh Police have received training on the three new criminal laws, with regular reviews being conducted to ensure their effective implementation. “We are leaving no stone unturned in making sure these laws are implemented efficiently and effectively,” she stated.
Shri Deepak Bajaj, an advocate at the Punjab and Haryana High Court, also spoke on this topic highlighting the efficiency and modernization these laws bring. “The BNS, BNSS, and BSA represent a comprehensive overhaul of our legal system, aimed at reducing delays and ensuring timely justice,” he said. “These laws address the inefficiencies of the past and provide a robust framework for the future.” He added, “The new legal codes mandate strict timelines for verdicts, minimizing unnecessary delays and ensuring swift justice.” He also outlined several key features:
• E-FIRs can now be lodged at any police station, irrespective of jurisdiction.
• Electronic copies of FIRs will be provided.
• Accused, victims, and witnesses can participate in hearings through audio-video conferencing.
The workshop featured an informative session by Smt. Sangeeta Joshi, Deputy Director, CBC, who briefed journalists about the various media units and the role of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. She highlighted the importance of effective communication and the media’s role in disseminating information about the new legal frameworks to the public.
In his welcome address, Shri Harshit Narang, Deputy Director, PIB, emphasized the critical role journalists play in helping the public understand and interpret significant legislative changes. “Journalists are the bridge between the government and the people. Your role in explaining these new laws and their implications to the public is invaluable,” he said.
An exhibition by the Central Bureau of Communication, Chandigarh, was also put up at the same venue. The exhibition showcased detailed provisions of the three new criminal laws on multiple panels. This exhibition provided attendees with a visual and comprehensive understanding of the new legislations.
The workshop concluded with an interactive Q&A session, where journalists had the opportunity to engage with the speakers and clarify their doubts about the new legislations.
